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MCC Schools are blessed to have so many great parents who care about their child’s education. What happens in the home environment has tremendous impact on a child’s ability to reach their academic potential. Here are some small but important changes you can make at home which can positively impact your child’s school success.

Make sure your child gets enough sleep! The lack of enough sleep can have a serious impact on a child’s behavior and ability to learn. Studies have shown that children who don’t get enough sleep can display the same behaviors and inability to focus as a child who has been diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). It is recommended that children ages 3-6 get 10-12 hours of sleep each night. Children ages 7-12 should get 10-11 hours of sleep each night, and ages 12-18 should be getting 8-9 hours of sleep. Have a regular bedtime routine that you stick to every night. Also, turn off computers, television and other electronic devices 30 minutes before bedtime. The blue light and flashing images may interfere with proper rest. Take away cell phones before bedtime and think twice about allowing computers or televisions in your child’s bedroom.

Praise children for hard work and persistence, not just for bringing home straight A’s. Remember that each child’s “best” is different. Your encouragement will help students to remain motivated and work to the best of their ability.

Make a point to eat together as a family. Studies show that kids whose families eat regular, relaxed meals together are more likely to get higher grades and are less likely to abuse drugs and alcohol. If schedules prevent you from eating meals together on a regular basis, consider having a family snack time where everyone gets together to share a healthy snack and talk about their day. It works best if you make it a regular routine.

Make your house a “yell-free zone”. Studies show that the conflict and stress a child experiences at home can negatively impact his or her learning. Family-induced stress can affect a child’s learning for up to two days following an incident. Teach your kids how to calm down in healthy ways and be a good role model for how to handle disagreements without screaming and fighting.